Council voted against the request 14 to nine. Among those against the proposal, which was approved by the city’s planning committee a month ago, were Mayor Jim Watson and Counc. Mathieu Fleury, who represents the area.

According to the official reasons for the rejection, passed as part of a separate motion, the building was judged to be too large and not fitting the historical character of the neighbourhood. Council also ruled that the proposed land use was too intense and that there were other parts of the city where the project would be more appropriate.

Viner has the option to appeal the decision to the Ontario Municipal Board, which was the power to overturn municipal planning decisions.

Claridge condo plan approved

Council approved a zoning change requested by Claridge Homes that will allow the company to build a 30-storey condo tower at 1040 Summerset St. W. The plan, which was scaled back from an initial 39 storeys, was passed with the approval of most councillors. Claridge will have to provide $850,000 in “community benefits” in exchange for the zoning change.

Domicile Little Italy project gets go ahead

An 18-storey condo development on Rochester Street in Little Italy also got the green light. Domicile Developments had requested a zoning change for the 127-unit development because the site was zoned for low-rise residential.

Councillors green light Ashcroft plan for Sparks Street

Also on the consent agenda was a request by Ashcroft Homes for permission to make alterations to two buildings that are part of the Sparks Street Heritage Conservation District and protected under the Ontario Heritage Act.

Ashcroft is looking to tear down the building at 106 Sparks St. and the rear part of 108-116 Sparks St. as part of a new mixed-use development.